Workforce development is understood to be a number of things depending on the organisation and the objectives or outcomes the organisation aims to achieve.
The term "workforce development " is often used to mean 'training". In reality, it means much more. Workforce development is a multi-level approach to supporting and sustaining effective work practice. It includes strategies at the level of the individual worker, the team, the organisation and the broader system within which the organisation operates.
Workforce development is also about how an industry or organisation attacts workers, retains workers and provides learning and skilling opportunities. In the fitness, sport and recreation industry this applies to both employees and volunteers.
It can address individual factors such as attitudes, motivation and conference in performing work roles, as well as knowledge and skills. It can include factors related to the working environment, such as support from co-workers and supervisors, staff feedback mechanisms, professional development opportunities and rewards and remuneration. Finally, it can address infrastruture and policy issues that impact on the delivery of services and/or products.
Workforce development is about providing effective responses to issues which face all organisation. It is essential part of ensuring the future strength and impact of the Queensland Sport, Fitness and Recreation Industry.
Understanding and profiting from workforce development involves a major shift in thinking. We need to broaden our thinking from just training to include factors such as organisational development, change management, knowledge transfer and skill development.
Workforce development also involves strategies to support best practice and remove or reduce barriers to effective work practice.